I use a variant of zettelkasten, which I call CSI:
- Top level: Connectors
- Middle level: Summaries
- Bottom level: Inputs
Everything new to the system, including thoughts, things I learn, MCQs from online question banks, anki decks, ward rounds, teaching sessions, journal clubs, research papers, etc - each gets their own Input note. In zettelkasten this is similar to transient and literature notes, but I don’t separate them.
From these Inputs, I identify concepts and merge perspectives in Summary notes. For example, a note on [[renal artery stenosis]] would be classified as a #diagnosis but would contain a synthesis referencing many input notes from teachings, exams, question banks, textbooks, etc. This is akin to an immature Permanent Note or Evergreen Note.
I make it a point to go deeper into Connector Notes, where I identify themes of deeper connection or difference. For example, connecting the physiology of the body to a management principle. You can see it as a connector between summaries. In my opinion, this is what brings notetaking to the next level. This is the area where real, personal ideas are superimposed over mere collection.
So to recap, everything raw or coming from other people goes into the Input notes, subsequently distilled into Summary notes. These little summaries are then connected via Connector notes.